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Principal Systems Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Zeno Power

Senior/Principal Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · Hybrid

$145K - $185K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Senior Systems Engineer to support the engineering efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power System (RPS) technologies. This ...

Zeno Power

Senior/Principal Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Senior Systems Engineer to support the engineering efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power System (RPS) technologies. This ...

Zeno Power

Senior/Principal Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Senior Systems Engineer to support the engineering efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power System (RPS) technologies. This ...

Zeno Power

Senior/Principal Systems Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$145K - $185K/yr

Systems Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Senior Systems Engineer to support the engineering efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power System (RPS) technologies. This ...

1 point system

Systems Engineer III

Bellevue, WA · On-site

Requirement - Systems Engineer III Location- Bellevue, WA 98005-Hybrid Contract W2 We are currently seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to join the R&D team at our Bellevue office. In this role, you ...

Blue Origin

Principal Systems Integrator

Seattle, WA · On-site

As the Principal Systems Integrator, you will be the operational engine that drives system-level ... This work must be executed quickly and honestly, without creating demand on domain engineering ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPrincipal Systems Engineer JobsPrincipal Systems Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Principal Systems Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$23.9K

$169.9K

$255.6K

How much do principal systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal systems engineer in Seattle, WA is $169,905.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,600.00 and $199,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a principal systems engineer typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during project development?

A Principal Systems Engineer plays a central role in coordinating between hardware, software, and project management teams to ensure system integration and project alignment. They often facilitate technical discussions, clarify requirements, and help resolve complex engineering challenges by leveraging their expertise. Regularly, they lead design reviews, mentor junior engineers, and act as the technical liaison between stakeholders to ensure project milestones are met. This collaborative approach helps maintain project quality and fosters innovation within the team.

What does a principal systems engineer do?

A principal systems engineer designs, develops, and integrates complex systems, often leading technical teams and projects. They analyze requirements, develop solutions, and ensure system performance and reliability, typically using tools like modeling software and adhering to industry standards. This role requires strong technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and often involves mentoring junior engineers.

What is the difference between Principal Systems Engineer vs Systems Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Systems EngineerSystems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Engineering, often with certifications like PMP or INCOSEBachelor's degree in Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLead complex projects, oversee system integration, collaborate with cross-functional teamsSupport system development, perform testing, assist in system implementation
Employer & Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, large tech firms, government agenciesTechnology companies, manufacturing, defense contractors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior technical roles, career progressionEntry to mid-level roles, job responsibilities

The Principal Systems Engineer typically holds a senior technical leadership role, overseeing complex projects and guiding teams, while the Systems Engineer focuses on supporting system development and implementation. Both roles require engineering credentials, but the Principal position involves more strategic oversight and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal systems engineer?

To thrive as a Principal Systems Engineer, you need deep expertise in systems architecture, integration, and engineering principles, typically backed by a degree in engineering or computer science. Familiarity with systems modeling tools (such as SysML), requirements management platforms, and relevant certifications like INCOSE CSEP are highly valued. Outstanding problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are crucial for designing complex systems, guiding multidisciplinary teams, and delivering solutions that meet technical and business objectives.
What are popular job titles related to Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Principal Systems Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Principal Systems Engineer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Principal Systems Engineer job openings:
Principal Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Systems Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 80% In-person, 10% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $169,905 per year, or $81.7 per hour.

Principal Systems Engineer

General Dynamics Ordnance & Tactical Systems

Bothell, WA • On-site

$137K - $185K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (OTS) is a global leader in the design, engineering and production of munitions, energetics, weapons, armaments, and missile subsystems around the world. OTS empowers the U.S. military and its allies with an extensive range of overarching product segments applied across all levels of strategic and tactical operations, providing a cutting-edge advantage to our warfighters.
Our Ethos of Honesty, Trust, Transparency, and Alignment, are the guiding principles that form the foundation of everything we do. Integrity is paramount, innovation fuels our passion, customer satisfaction is at the core of our mission, and collaboration is key to our success - fostering a culture of teamwork and mutual respect among employees, partners, and stakeholders.
Whether you're just starting out on your career journey or are an experienced professional, we offer a robust total rewards package that goes above and beyond with compensation; healthcare, wellness, retirement, and work/life benefits that include career development and recognition programs.
If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Job Summary
We are looking for a Principal Systems Engineer to join our engineering team to lead the development of precision guidance technologies. The Principal Systems Engineer works with internal & external stakeholders to develop & maintain system and subsystem architectural models, perform Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) simulation, define requirements & verification methods, & manage risk for guided munition programs. In this role, you will collaborate with program managers & technical leads to balance technical scope with cost, schedule, resources, & risk. Using a MBSE approach, you will recommend system engineering tools, define processes, & lead continuous improvement activities. This role supports business development in drafting proposals & collaborates on internal R&D strategies.
Impact of the Role
General Profile
  • Requires specialized depth and/or breadth of expertise in own job discipline or field
  • Uses advanced techniques, theories, and processes to complete work
  • Leads others to solve complex problems
  • Works independently, with guidance in only the most complex situations
  • May lead functional teams or projects
  • Consistent exercise of discretion & judgment

Essential Functions
  • Responsible for the overall systems infrastructure including engineering, implementation and integration, and technical services and support.
  • Designs, implements, installs, maintains, and administers infrastructures including hardware, software, and various configurations.
  • Monitors overall performance to proactively identify potential issues and tune appropriately.
  • Performs root cause analysis on failed components and implements corrective measures.
  • Works with others to establish and improve processes and procedures.
  • May have sole responsibility for projects and participate in disaster recovery exercises.
      • Additional Responsibilities
      Requirements management, analysis & definition;MBSE;Generating tech. documents, presentation material;tech briefings;risk mngmt,tech POC for key suppliers;Root cause analysis & corrective actions;FMEA exp at system & component levels
      Required Qualifications
      • Required education and experience: Associate's Degree and 8-10 years' experience
      • Discipline/Major: Engineering degree required
      • Critical professional related technical skills; computer skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

      Preferred Qualifications
      • Preferred education and experience: Bachelor's Degree
      • Knowledge, skills & abilities: Technical Expertise. Analytical Thinking Skills. Problem-Solving Skills.7+ years experience in Systems Eng;Strong planning, execution & multitasking skills;High degree of analytical aptitude with strong problem-solving skills;Performing a variety of complex tasks using experience & judgment;Manage quickly changing priorities while meeting deadlines;

      Physical Requirements
      • Must be able to remain in a stationary position at a desk and/or computer for extended periods of time.
      • Requires regular movement throughout GD-OTS facilities.
      • Work primarily in a climate-controlled environment with minimal safety/health hazard potential.
      • Work may require employee to work inside and outside with exposure to changing climate and/or operate machinery.

      Travel Requirements
      Up to 25% travel likely.
      Pay Range (USD)
      $137,400 -$185,800
      Pay Transparency Statement
      The salary range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum for salary for this position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, internal equity, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the range during the hiring process.
      Benefits
      Employees are eligible for medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, and basic life insurance as well as pre-tax spending accounts. Employees are also able to enroll in the company's 401k plan and are eligible for the Non-Contributory Retirement Contribution. In addition to the benefits discussed above, the company offers the following voluntary benefits: Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Identify Theft Protection, Enhanced Legal Services, Auto and Home Insurance, Pet Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Educational Assistance.
      Paid Time Off
      Employees will receive 11 paid holidays and 120 hours of PTO annually and up to 3 weeks paid family leave.
      The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. The statements do not represent an exhaustive list of required responsibilities and skills. Other duties may be added or this job description may be amended at any time. This job description does not alter an employee's at-will employment status or create an employment agreement or contract, implied or otherwise.

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